A paving specialist (also called a hard landscaper or driveway contractor) installs hard external surfaces for driveways, patios, paths and parking areas. The work begins with excavation and correct sub-base preparation - the most critical stage for long-term performance - followed by laying the chosen surface material. A paving specialist will advise on SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems) compliance for driveways, which affects planning requirements. They typically work with block paving, natural stone flags, porcelain, resin-bound gravel and tarmac. Good drainage design is part of any quality installation.
What they do
- Block paving driveway installation
- Natural stone and porcelain patio installation
- Resin-bound and resin-bonded driveways
- Tarmac driveway installation
- Concrete paving and imprinted concrete
- Path and walkway installation
- Sub-base preparation and drainage design
- Edging, kerbing and channel drain installation
When you need one
A paving specialist is needed for any driveway or hard landscaping project. Always discuss drainage requirements before agreeing a specification.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Block paving driveway (supply and lay, per sq m) | £100 - £170/sq m |
| Natural stone patio (supply and lay, per sq m) | £80 - £180/sq m |
| Porcelain paving (supply and lay, per sq m) | £100 - £200/sq m |
| Resin-bound driveway (supply and lay, per sq m) | £80 - £150/sq m |
| Tarmac driveway (supply and lay, per sq m) | £50 - £100/sq m |
| Labour only (per day) | £200 - £350/day |
Sub-base preparation is usually included in sq m supply-and-lay prices. Costs increase for sloped sites requiring additional excavation or where existing hard surfaces need to be broken out and removed.
Qualifications to look for
Interpave (the Precast Concrete Paving and Kerb Association) accredits installers who have demonstrated competence in block paving installation to the correct standards. Find accredited installers at interpave.org.uk.
TrustMark-registered paving contractors have been assessed for technical competence and customer service. Useful for both domestic and commercial projects.
How to find a reputable paving specialist
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission to pave my front garden?
In England, you do not need planning permission to pave a front garden if the surface is permeable (allows water to drain through) or if you provide drainage to a lawn or border. However, if you use an impermeable surface such as solid concrete or block paving without drainage, and the area exceeds 5 sq m, you will need planning permission. Using permeable block paving or resin-bound gravel avoids this requirement.
What is the difference between resin-bonded and resin-bound paving?
Resin-bonded paving has aggregate scattered over a resin coat applied to an existing surface - it is not fully permeable and the stones can detach over time. Resin-bound paving has aggregate thoroughly mixed with resin before being applied - the surface is permeable, more durable and SUDS-compliant. Resin-bound is generally considered the higher-quality option for driveways.
How long does block paving last?
Block paving installed on a correct sub-base (typically 100-150mm Type 1 MOT compacted aggregate) typically lasts 20-30 years or more. The individual blocks are extremely durable and can be lifted and relaid if services need to be accessed. Poor sub-base preparation is the primary cause of block paving failure - sinking and rocking blocks.